The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has joined forces with Amazon UAE to launch the ‘DET x Amazon Accelerator,’ a program aimed at accelerating the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Dubai. This initiative focuses on enhancing the international competitiveness of Dubai’s SMEs by providing them with the latest digital tools, resources, and mentorship to aid in their digital transformation and expansion into global markets.
Part of Dubai’s Economic Agenda
The DET x Amazon Accelerator is a key initiative under the Dubai Traders initiative, one of ten transformative projects outlined by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, as part of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. The aim is to establish Dubai as a hub for entrepreneurship and SME growth through strategic partnerships with companies like Amazon, facilitating the digital expansion of SMEs.
Key objectives of the Dubai Traders initiative include digitising supply chains, establishing online retail presence, and improving international access for Dubai-based SMEs. This initiative empowers small businesses to create robust digital infrastructures, scale operations, and connect with a wider global audience.
Signing Ceremony and Leadership Involvement
The Memorandum of Understanding for the accelerator was signed in the presence of H.E. Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of DET, and Ronaldo Mouchawar, Vice President of Amazon Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey. The signing was also witnessed by Hadi Badri, CEO of Dubai Economic Development Corporation, and Jasmin Frick, Director of Seller Success at Amazon MENA. This partnership exemplifies the synergy between government and private sectors working together to enhance Dubai’s SME landscape in a competitive market.
Six Core Pillars of the Accelerator Program
The ‘DET x Amazon Accelerator’ focuses on six key pillars designed to empower SMEs:
- Global Reach: Participants gain access to Amazon’s extensive global network, allowing them to tap into new markets beyond the UAE.
- Digital Upskilling: Amazon will provide customised training sessions to help SMEs effectively use its proprietary tools and strategies for growth.
- Tailored Expertise: SMEs will receive personalised services from trusted Amazon service providers to maximise growth potential through tools like Fulfilment by Amazon and Amazon Advertising.
- Enhanced Visibility: Participants will be featured in a dedicated “Shop Local” store on Amazon UAE, promoting local businesses during major sales events.
- Marketing Support: Amazon will provide advertising credits to assist SMEs in launching impactful marketing campaigns.
- Collaborative Spirit: The program reflects the essence of public-private partnerships, combining government initiatives with global private sector expertise to support SME growth.
Empowering Dubai’s SMEs for Success
Leveraging Amazon’s 25 years of global experience, the ‘DET x Amazon Accelerator’ aims to equip Dubai’s SMEs with essential tools for international success. By simplifying their digital transformation journey, the program offers an easier path to establishing a strong online presence and accessing global markets.
This collaboration is poised to significantly contribute to making Dubai a leading hub for entrepreneurship and SME growth, in line with the city’s economic agenda. The initiative will provide Dubai’s SMEs with valuable opportunities to thrive in an increasingly competitive global economy, reflecting the city’s commitment to innovation and business excellence.
The partnership between DET and Amazon UAE highlights the critical need for SMEs to embrace digital transformation to remain competitive in an evolving market. With mentorship, advanced digital tools, and access to Amazon’s vast global platform, the accelerator program aims to position Dubai-based businesses as key players on the international stage.
